Is A Weim For Me?

Please ask yourself the following questions in order to determine if you should bring a Weimaraner into your life:

Q: Do I have time for a dog?

A Weimaraner is intelligent and active, and wants the companionship of his owner. If left alone a great amount of time they will become bored, may bark, will get into mischief and become destructive. If you work long hours, or If you do not have time to exercise or care for a dog properly, do not get a dog.

Q: Will the size, personality and high energy of a Weimaraner fit into my family lifestyle?

A Weimaraner is a large dog with an "in your face" personality. They require a great deal of exercise. As a pack animal, they want to share your life and be a part of the family. They are not "kennel dogs" and do not do well confined in crates, pens or chained outside for extended periods of time. They can be demanding of attention and when attention is lacking they will become miscevious.

Q: Can I afford a dog?

A Weimaraner will need a quality dog food, training, vet care, a dog crate, collar, leash, boarding at a kennel if you are away, etc.

Q: Am I and my family willing to take care of a dog?

A Weimaraner will need obedience training (as will the owners), plenty of daily exercise, yard cleanup, grooming, feeding, vet care and most important - love and attention throughout his life. Does everyone in the family want a Weimaraner?

Q:  Am I willing to cope with muddy footprints, exhuberant excitement, sharing my favorite couch, letting a large dog in and out, holes dug in the yard, etc.?

While many Weimaraners mellow with age, training and the proper attention, young Weimaraners can be a challenge on your patience and possessions. If you are thinking that you might not be able to handle the "puppy stage" (this can be as long as 2-3 years) but do want a Weimaraner, please consider adopting an adult rescue Weimaraner who may better suit your lifestyle and who may be more mellow in temperament.

Q: What is my situation with small children?

Small children can be knocked over by an exuberant Weimaraner. A young dog will require as much attention, affection, guidance, patience and humor as a child. Children should be taught to be respectful and caring toward the dog.

Q: Do I have enough room for a large dog?

If you live in an apartment or condo with very little yard space, do not get a Weimaraner. They are Sporting Dogs and were bred to hunt requiring space to run every day. A walk on a leash in the park once a day may not be enough to spend a young dog's energy. Being a Sporting Dog, they require a large fenced yard to keep from roaming. A Weimaraner will not be happy in an apartment or a home with no yard and could become destructive.

Q. Will my energy and dedication last as long as my pet lives?

You should be willing and able to give a Weimaraner constant and reliable care for the approximate lifespan of 12 years.

Q: Weimaraner pups are adorable...but DO NOT buy one because you like the blue eyes......

At approximately three months of age, the pups eyes will change from blue to amber. Also, do not purchase a Weimaraner because you like the sleek grey coat or because of how nice they look on Sesame Street, TV commercials, books, calendars and advertisements. Puppies do grow up quickly and are not the stoic dogs that you see in books and posters. Please remember, the Weimaraner was bred for certain characteristics different from other breeds of dogs.

Do your homework! Read all that you can about the breed. Visit Weimaraner owners, meet their dogs and ask questions. Take the time to attend a dog show or field event. Deal only with reputable breeders who will guarantee the health of their dogs and who will be available to assist and support you as your pup grows. Do not buy a pup from a Website unless you have thoroughly checked the breeder and the background of the pups. Do not buy from a pet store.

Once you have acquired a Weimaraner, you have added a whole new set of responsibilities to your life. You have also gained a new friend who will give you years of unselfish love, companionship and special memories.

For more information, please go the the Weimaraner Club of America Website